Efforts to address the environmental impact of the HMNZS Manawanui grounding and sinking are gathering pace, with both New Zealand and Samoa working in close partnership to ensure the safety and sustainability of the affected marine area.
In the wake of the incident, initial sea water testing conducted by Samoan authorities in October revealed elevated hydrocarbon levels around the site and further afield, prompting the establishment of a precautionary fishing zone. Now, the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa (SROS) has initiated a new round of water sampling to update the environmental impact assessment.
Commodore Andrew Brown, NZDF Senior National Representative for Operation Resolution, emphasised New Zealand's commitment to assisting Samoa in its monitoring efforts.
“To transport SROS technicians to test sites they identified in their monitoring plan to take water samples, SROS asked to use the small boat capability the NZDF currently has supporting our diving operations,” Commodore Brown explained.
“It’s very important for us to help where we can, so we are happy to assist SROS with transport to their testing sites. We also recognise how important this is for the Samoan people on the southern coast.”
Twice-weekly sampling has now commenced under SROS's monitoring plan, with technicians analysing the collected samples at their facilities in Apia. The results will be reported to Samoa’s Marine Pollution Advisory Committee, which will advise the government on any adjustments to the precautionary zone.
Meanwhile, preparations for the removal of fuel and other pollutants from the Manawanui are accelerating. A tug and barge carrying salvage equipment is expected to arrive in Apia within days, and many salvage crew members are already on site in Samoa.
Commodore Brown expressed optimism about the progress made thus far, noting the importance of both the operation’s environmental and community outcomes.
“We appreciate the importance of the marine and coastal environments to the people of Samoa and while the recovery efforts will take time, New Zealand is absolutely committed to doing the right thing.”
The collaborative response underscores the shared commitment of Samoa and New Zealand to addressing the environmental risks posed by the HMNZS Manawanui incident, ensuring the protection of vital marine ecosystems and the livelihoods they support.
As salvage operations begin to gather momentum, the partnership between the two nations continues to highlight the importance of international cooperation in safeguarding the Pacific’s unique and fragile environments.
